Pretty Pamukkale

Quite a way off the beaten track that runs from Olympos along the coast of Turkey to Istanbul is the sparkling white pools of Pamukkale. Often featured in tourist brochures on Turkey, the pools are pretty amazing. Sparkling blue water runs over a series of perfectly white rock pools, made by the deposition of calcium from the calcium rich water. The ancients obviously appreciated the spot, the Greek and Roman ruins of Hierapolis sit just behind the pools. The ruins, excavated by the Italians, are splendidly signed and can be easily explored without a guide or guidebook. Right in the middle of the ruins is a new hotel, whose pool is fed from a nearby hot spring. The pool is also full of Roman columns and other ruins. The end result, if pricey, is quite amazing. Swim alongside fallen Roman columns and the ruins of streets etc. in 35 degree, “healing” water. Kel, having had her fix of ruins for the trip, spent the afternoon by the pool while I sped around the ruins. Although most people believe Ephesus to be a superior Roman site I found Heliopolis much nicer and easier to explore. Sunset over the pools was stunning, with the still water taking on all the colours of the setting sun.